Seven Honored with Kentucky FFA State Honorary Degree

During the 97th Kentucky FFA State Convention, seven individuals were recognized with the Honorary State FFA Degree, one of the highest honors the Kentucky FFA Association can bestow upon a non-member. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to agricultural education and Kentucky FFA through their leadership, service, advocacy, and support.

Congratulations to this year’s recipients.

Anthony Koch of Paris has been a dedicated supporter of Kentucky FFA through his service as a longtime State FFA Convention judge and member of the Kentucky FFA Foundation Board of Trustees. His leadership, including two years as Foundation Board chair, has helped guide the Foundation during a period of tremendous growth.

Ashley Weaver of Glasgow serves as the Finance and Grant Manager for the Kentucky FFA Foundation. Through her dedication, financial stewardship, and attention to detail, Weaver helps ensure donor support is transformed into meaningful opportunities for Kentucky FFA members and chapters.

Ken and Brenda Reed of Versailles were both recognized with the Honorary State FFA Degree for their longstanding commitment to Kentucky FFA.

Ken Reed has served as a longtime judge for the State Star Farmer competition and has supported agricultural education through sponsorship of the Ag Teachers Change Lives Award. Brenda Reed has faithfully supported local and state FFA initiatives alongside Ken, helping provide opportunities for FFA members through both encouragement and financial support. Together, the Reeds have made a lasting impact on Kentucky FFA and agricultural education.

Kyle Kelly of Owenton has served on the Kentucky FFA Foundation Board of Trustees for nearly a decade. He has played an instrumental role in the success of the Kentucky FFA Blue and Gold Gala, helping raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for Kentucky FFA, while also volunteering as a State FFA contest judge.

Mary Taylor of Springfield has served for several years as a judge for the Employment Skills Leadership Development Event. Her professional expertise and understanding of workforce expectations have helped ensure the contest provides students with an authentic, real-world experience as they prepare for future careers.

Matthew Whitaker of Mt. Vernon is an agricultural educator at Rockcastle County High School and a past president of the Kentucky Association of Agricultural Educators. His leadership has helped strengthen agricultural education across Kentucky while supporting teachers and FFA members statewide.